This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the combination switch (multifunction switch) assembly mounted on the steering column of a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch (multifunction switch) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position
4. Open hood and disconnect battery negative terminal
5. Wait minimum 10 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
6. Adjust steering column to lowest and furthest forward position for access

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the battery negative terminal cable. Secure cable away from battery post. Wait 10 minutes before proceeding to next step to allow airbag system capacitor to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column shroud below the steering wheel. Remove the T20 Torx screws securing the lower cover (typically 2-3 screws at bottom edge). Gently pull lower cover away from column and set aside. Be careful not to force clips as they break easily.
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column shroud attachment points. Remove T20 Torx screws securing upper cover (typically 2 screws near ignition cylinder). Carefully lift upper cover up and over steering wheel, being mindful of any wiring clips attached to the cover. Disconnect any electrical connectors for mood lighting if equipped.
4. 4

   Locate combination switch assembly
   With covers removed, identify the combination switch on the left side of the steering column. The assembly includes the turn signal, wiper, and high beam controls. Note the position of any wire harness routing clips attached to the steering column for reassembly reference.
5. 5

   Disconnect combination switch electrical connectors
   Locate the two main electrical connectors on the combination switch assembly (one large multi-pin connector and one smaller connector). Press the locking tabs on each connector and carefully pull connectors straight off the switch. Support the switch body while disconnecting to avoid damaging mounting points.
   ⚠Do not pull on wiring harness; pull only on connector bodies to prevent wire damage
6. 6

   Remove combination switch mounting fasteners
   Using a T25 Torx driver, remove the two screws securing the combination switch to the steering column housing. These screws are typically located on the left side of the column, one above and one below the switch assembly. Keep screws in a safe location for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove combination switch from column
   With mounting screws removed, carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a tab that engages a slot in the column housing, so slight rocking motion while pulling may be necessary. Remove switch completely from vehicle.
8. 8

   Install new combination switch
   Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column, ensuring any alignment tabs or slots are properly engaged. The switch should sit flush against the column housing. Verify the control stalks move freely and are in the correct orientation before securing.
9. 9

   Install combination switch mounting screws
   Install the two T25 Torx mounting screws into the combination switch. Tighten screws evenly and gradually to avoid cocking the switch assembly. Ensure switch is seated properly before final tightening. Verify switch stalks still operate smoothly after tightening.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect both electrical connectors to the combination switch, ensuring they are fully seated. You should hear and feel a positive click when each connector locks into place. Verify locking tabs are fully engaged. Route wiring harness as noted during removal, securing any clips to steering column.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position upper steering column cover over the column and switch assembly. Align all mounting points and ensure no wiring is pinched. Reconnect any mood lighting connectors if equipped. Install T20 Torx screws and tighten securely, but do not overtighten as plastic covers can crack.
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align lower steering column cover with upper cover and column assembly. Ensure all alignment tabs engage properly. Install T20 Torx screws to secure lower cover. Verify cover edges are flush and no gaps exist between upper and lower covers.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect battery negative terminal cable to battery post. Tighten terminal bolt to specification using torque wrench. Do not overtighten as battery terminal can be damaged.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly aligned with no gaps
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Check that combination switch control stalks move freely through full range of motion
4. Confirm no wiring is pinched between column covers or under switch assembly

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify instrument cluster illuminates normally with no new warning lights
• Test turn signal function in both left and right positions, verify indicator lights flash in instrument cluster and exterior lights operate
• Test high beam and flash-to-pass functions, verify blue high beam indicator in instrument cluster
• Test windshield wiper operation in all speed settings including intermittent, low, and high
• Test windshield washer function
• Verify cruise control stalk operates properly if equipped on combination switch
• Check for any fault codes using OBD-II scanner, clear any codes related to battery disconnect
• Verify steering angle sensor has not set fault codes by turning steering wheel lock-to-lock with ignition on, engine off
• Test drive vehicle to confirm all functions operate normally under driving conditions

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